Hector Fernandez Departs Aristocrat Gaming: Craig Toner Named New CEO
Hector Fernandez has stepped down as CEO of Aristocrat Gaming, with Craig Toner, the company’s Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President of Operations, taking over the role.
Craig Toner to Succeed Hector Fernandez as CEO
According to Aristocrat’s press release, Fernandez accepted an offer from a competitor but remains bound by a 12-month non-compete agreement.
Fernandez joined Aristocrat in 2018 as CFO for the Americas gaming division and was promoted to CEO of Aristocrat Gaming in 2022. After six years at the company, his departure marks a significant leadership change.
Craig Toner, who previously served as CFO and EVP of Operations, has been appointed as the new CEO, effective immediately, pending necessary regulatory approvals.
Aristocrat CEO and Managing Director, Trevor Croker said “Craig has been a key part of the global Aristocrat Gaming leadership team that has delivered strong growth and transformational change over recent years. He has also worked closely with our Board and Executive Steering Committee on a number of major strategic and operational priorities. Craig is people oriented, highly collaborative and impactful. We are delighted to be able to elevate a proven and capable leader of Craig’s calibre to this role, demonstrating again the depth of talent we have built at Aristocrat.”
Toner Brings Wealth of Experience to the Role
Craig Toner has over seven years of experience at Aristocrat, having held various leadership roles in finance and operations across both Australia and the United States. Three years ago, he relocated to Las Vegas after being named CFO and EVP of Operations for Aristocrat Gaming.
Before joining Aristocrat, Toner spent nearly 20 years in senior commercial, strategic, and operational roles at Lion Ltd, one of Australia and New Zealand’s largest beverage companies. He is a certified CPA with a bachelor’s degree in management, accounting, and finance.
“Craig will ensure a seamless leadership transition, maintaining a relentless customer focus, and continuing to execute our plans. Aristocrat Gaming today is a global team with extraordinary resilience, depth and momentum, and I have every confidence that Craig will continue to build on this going forward, with the support of the many talented leaders across our global business,” concluded Trevor Croker
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